Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
From Silver City, New Mexico, Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is accessible through a 45-mile scenic journey. Before you walk out to see the amazing cave houses that the nomadic Mogollon people constructed in the late 1200s, you can stop at the visitor center. Each day at 11 am, you can either take a guided tour of the homes or pick up some information at the visitors center and explore on your own schedule.
The Gila and Aldo Leopold Wilderness Areas, which may be reached through trails beginning at the Gila visitors center, offer hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities, as well as the chance to explore some of the local hot springs.
When you visit Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, you can get a look into the way of life and culture of the Mogollon people who lived there in the late 1200s. You can tour the cliff houses while you're there, and the tourist center and contact station also have information about the site's previous occupants. Additionally, the nearby Gila National Forest offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and other activities. Bring a bathing suit with you because there are also other hot springs in the region.
Rankings:
- #9 in Best Places to Visit in New Mexico
Location: New Mexico
